Torres Strait Regional Authority’s Gab Titui Cultural Centre has opened artwork submissions for Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area artists ahead of two of Australia’s biggest First Nations art events: the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) and the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF).
The callout is aimed at supporting local artists to present work on national platforms, while also managing the practical realities of transporting artworks from Waiben (Thursday Island) to major mainland exhibitions. According to details shared through National Indigenous Times, Gab Titui staff will assist artists to prepare and deliver works to the centre, with all artworks required to arrive at Gab Titui by 1 June 2026 to meet shipping deadlines.
CIAF and DAAF are widely seen as key entry points for Indigenous artists and art centres to reach collectors, curators and the broader public, while also strengthening cultural authority and visibility for works grounded in Country, sea Country and community.
The callout builds on an established partnership approach. The Torres Strait Regional Authority has previously highlighted its support for local artists engaging with major art fairs, including earlier collaborations connected to CIAF. Gab Titui’s role is both cultural and logistical: supporting artists with preparation, safe handling and ethical presentation, while ensuring the Torres Strait’s distinctive creative traditions are represented on national stages.
CIAF describes itself as a First Nations-led art fair and cultural celebration held annually on Gimuy Walubara Yidinji Country, and promotes its purpose as showcasing the richness and diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art and culture. DAAF similarly positions itself as a major platform for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander contemporary fine art, bringing together art centres and artists from across Australia.
For Torres Strait artists, participation can help build sustainable creative careers while also strengthening intergenerational practice and cultural continuity. Organisers and art centres frequently stress that proper preparation and deadlines are essential, particularly when works must be shipped long distances and managed under strict exhibition schedules.
With submissions now open, artists are being encouraged to engage early with Gab Titui’s support team to ensure works can be safely delivered, documented and shipped in time for both fairs.
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